Being a quilter in Central Oregon is heaven! We have 9 shops all within a 45 minute drive and they all have their own appeal. And now, I have added Portland to my quilting life! I will be sharing my shopping, projects, mistakes, successes and travels...all things quilt!...so come join me in my world of quilting, books, movies and restaurants!

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Wednesday, January 18, 2012

Jean Wells, Quilting Royalty

Yesterday I had an opportunity to visit the home of Jean Wells of Sisters, Oregon. I can't imagine there is anyone who quilts that does not know the name Jean Wells. For those of us blessed to be able to live in Central Oregon, Jean put our little land lock part of the state on the map!

She says that her grandmother was a strong early influence inspiring her to sew. With her artistic eye, determination and courage she opened the Stitchin Post and has been inspiring quilters for over 35 years! In 1975 the first Outdoor Quilt show was hung and has been a draw for thousands of quilters and quilt lovers ever since. When I asked how many quilts she has made in her life...somewhere between 1500-2000!

In 2005 her daughter Valori became a partner in the shop. You can visit the post on her life and studio by clicking on the link. Both women are incredible designers and inspire quilters around the world...all from a little town of about 1600 people.

Being a curious sort...and always wanting to learn not only about quilting but how people live their lives day to day it was a treat to visit Jean's home. She and her husband have been in the new place for about 2 1/2 years. Right on the edge of town she can walk or bike to the shop. With a beautiful view of the 3 Sisters range over a pasture with grazing horses...one has to wonder why she ever goes to the shop! Catherine Gray was the designer and Brad Nickleson the builder. They chose to build a passive solar home which keeps the inside temperature an even 66-68 degrees. Ok, ok...enough talking...and lets get to the slide show! Enjoy...you can stop the show anytime and take a more detailed look.

6 comments:

Amazing artwork intricated into her home! got to ask though...I couldn't see a door handle on that gorgeous front door :-) Was it camoflaged? What a wonderful gift she has been to Sister's and quilters in general. Thank you to Jean and to you for sharing her beautiful home.